Scallion Oil Noodles

Scallion Oil Noodles

　　Scallion oil noodles are a famous snack from Shanghai. The preparation of scallion oil noodles is very particular. First, the white part of the scallions is cut into inch-long segments and fried in warm oil (this method produces scallion oil that is deep reddish-yellow in color, richly aromatic, and can instantly whet your appetite). Then, the scallion oil is combined with dried shrimp (known as "kaiyang") that has been stir-fried in vegetable oil and marinated in wine and sugar, creating the scallion oil mixture. The noodles are boiled, drained of excess broth, and then tossed with the scallion oil to make scallion oil noodles. These noodles are vibrant in color, smooth and refreshing to eat, with a delicious shrimp flavor and a strong aroma of scallions. They are highly nutritious and very popular.

　　　Scallion oil noodles are one of the classic Shanghai street food dishes, primarily made with noodles. The cooking technique for scallion oil noodles mainly involves tossing, and the flavor profile is scallion-based. The characteristics of scallion oil noodles include delicious dried shrimp, a rich aroma of scallions, smooth and non-greasy noodles.

　　　　I remember scallion oil noodles were my childhood favorite. My father often used them to whip up a quick lunch at home. The moment I smelled the scallions sizzling in the hot oil, I couldn’t help but get excited. But the simpler a dish is, the harder it is to perfect—and scallion oil noodles are no exception. Made with fragrant scallion oil and well-cooked dried shrimp (called "kaiyang" in Shanghai), they are simply tossed together with noodles.

　　　　I remember scallion oil noodles were my childhood favorite. My father often used them to whip up a quick lunch at home. The moment I smelled the scallions sizzling in the hot oil, I couldn’t help but get excited. But the simpler a dish is, the harder it is to perfect—and scallion oil noodles are no exception. Made with fragrant scallion oil and well-cooked dried shrimp (called "kaiyang" in Shanghai), they are simply tossed together with noodles.

　　　　Secret to deliciousness: The noodles are chewy and firm, the dried shrimp are flavorful, and the scallion oil is richly aromatic. With a bowl of great scallion oil noodles in hand, you won’t even glance at any other side dishes on the table.